Tartuffe: Difference between revisions

<i>Tartuffe</i> provides a startling glimpse of hypocrisy where you would least expect to find it: from a saintly priest. Throughout the play, Tartuffe pretends to be a humble and deeply religious man who is only looking to protect the family from sin and scoundrels. He righteously states that "In all things, let the will of Heaven be done” as he dutifully accepts Orgon’s gift (42). He even has the audacity to tell Cleante that he was bound by God to take the money “Lest those to whom it might descend in time turn it to purposes of sin and crime (61-62).” Tartuffe has cleverly convinced Orgon that he only has his best interest at heart, when in fact he “Has in a hundred ways beguiled and tricked him, milked him of money, and with his permission established here a sort of Inquisition (30-32).” Tartuffe really wears a mask of piety that he displays when it suits his "Godly" purposes. On other occasions, such as when he is attempting to seduce Elmire, he removes his mask and shows his hypocritical nature and thus, his true self.